New Plan to Meet Future Skills Demand
The Government has published the Construction Jobs Plan to support the delivery of its Modern Industrial Strategy, which is seeking to unlock the potential of the highest‐growth sectors of the economy. As a critical enabler of these sectors, construction is seen as “fundamental to delivering the Government’s ambitions for housing, infrastructure, clean energy and growth”, and the Jobs Plan provides a national framework to address the sector’s skills challenges. It sets out how Government and industry can work together to increase the number of people into the sector and the occupations and places needed to meet future demand.
The new plan highlights the Construction Apprenticeship Network, which is being developed by Build UK with the backing of the Construction Skills Mission Board to support the recruitment and retention of apprentices. With a new report from CITB revealing significant regional differences in construction apprenticeship starts and employer participation across Britain, the Construction Apprenticeship Network will include a ‘matching service’, developed with the support of CITB, to connect individuals looking for an apprenticeship with local employers offering opportunities.
In an effort to ensure there are routes for everyone to enter construction, CITB is consulting on the introduction of ‘Functional Competence’, which would recognise competence at a task‐based level, enabling workers to gain formal recognition for competence in specific activities within an occupation, rather than requiring competence across an entire role. The deadline for responses is Friday 15 January.
Behind Every Great Event…
With just over two weeks to go until the 2026 UK Fencing Industry Awards, preparations are gathering pace for what promises to be a fantastic celebration at Old Trafford.
But an event of this scale simply wouldn’t be possible without the businesses and organisations who get behind it.
We’re incredibly grateful to our 2026 Awards sponsors, whose generosity and continued support allow us to recognise and celebrate the exceptional talent, workmanship and dedication found throughout the UK fencing industry.
Our Category Sponsors
- Agricultural & Equine – Tornado Wire
- Apprentice of the Year – Siddall & Hilton
- Domestic – Birkdale
- Gates & Barriers – DHF
- Highways & Railways – Lawsons Group
- Industrial – IAE
- Project of the Year – Zaun
- Security – Barkers
- Sports & Education – Alexandra Security
- Supplier of the Year – Scanpole
- Temporary Fencing & Hoarding – Topan Group
- Women in Fencing – First Fence
Our Event Sponsors
- Binns Fencing – Guest Speaker Sponsors
- Commtel – Bar & Champagne Reception Sponsor
- Locinox – Stadium Tour Sponsor
- AJ’s Training by Saferoad – Industry Guests Sponsor
From sponsoring individual award categories to helping create a memorable experience for our guests, each plays an important part in making the Awards such a special occasion.
It’s particularly encouraging to see so many businesses supporting an event that celebrates not just their own achievements, but the success and professionalism of the wider industry.
To every one of our sponsors – thank you!
We look forward to celebrating with you at Old Trafford on Thursday 12 November.
Common Assessment Standard V6
Build UK will publish an updated version of the Common Assessment Standard on 1 November 2026. Version 6 includes significant changes to the Building Safety section to reflect that scaffolding and temporary works are not in scope of the Building Regulations which regulate ‘building work’, unless they form part of the structure once complete.
Companies will now have to ‘opt out’ of completing the Building Safety section and provide a statement confirming that they do not carry out work under the Building Regulations. The competence‐based questions have been moved to the Quality section so that they are completed by all companies, and other key questions such as having a Drugs and Alcohol policy and fraud prevention procedures in place are also now mandatory for all companies.
There is a growing list of organisations using the Common Assessment Standard to demonstrate the organisational capability of their supply chains, and companies will have to complete the updated question set when they next go through the certification process after 1 November. Once certified by a Recognised Assessment Body, a company can share its data at no cost with the other Recognised Assessment Bodies, so it is visible to more Contractors and Clients.
FenceX 2027 – Bringing the Industry Together
One of the things that makes FenceX so special is the sheer variety of businesses and people it brings together.
From fencing contractors, manufacturers and suppliers to gate automation specialists, machinery providers and industry professionals, FenceX creates a dedicated meeting place for the entire fencing and perimeter security sector.
Following the success of FenceX 2025, preparations are well underway for FenceX 2027, taking place on Thursday 23 September at NAEC Stoneleigh.
Whether you’re looking to discover new products, meet suppliers, explore the latest innovations or simply catch up with industry colleagues, FenceX offers an opportunity to do it all in one place.
And for businesses considering exhibiting, there’s still time to take advantage of our Early Bird Booking Scheme, allowing indoor stands to be secured with just a 10% deposit until 31 December 2026.
Want to be part of it?
Contact fencex@theafi.co.uk for the latest floorplan, pricing and stand availability.
One industry. One place. FenceX 2027.
NHP Supplier Guide
The New Hospital Programme (NHP), a Build UK member, has updated its NHP Supplier Guide to help businesses in the supply chain understand what the NHP is, how it will be delivered, and how to prepare for future opportunities. With 16 NHP schemes to start construction by 2030, members interested in getting involved can sign up to receive regular updates from the NHP.
There’s More to Fencing Than Putting Up Fences!
Running a fencing business involves far more than the work carried out on site. From risk assessments and method statements to employment matters, contracts and health & safety, there’s plenty to keep on top of behind the scenes.
The good news? AFI membership gives you access to practical support to help manage the business side of fencing.
Your membership includes:
- Construction law and contract advice – one hour of free specialist advice, with support available in England, Wales and Scotland.
- Employment and HR advice – free access to professional guidance when you need it.
- Health & safety advice – support with the responsibilities that come with running a business.
- Credit checks – free, unlimited checks to help you make informed decisions about who you do business with.
- Confidential wellbeing advice – because looking after yourself is just as important as looking after your business.
Whether you’re dealing with a tricky contract, navigating an employment question or simply need some reassurance that you’re on the right track, don’t forget that support is available through your AFI membership.
You’ve got the tools for the job. Let us help with the rest.
Find out more about your member benefits at www.afiorg.uk.